What to do if you suspect seafood substitution

April 4, 2011

What to look for: Experts say to be cautious if the price seems unusually low. Consumers should also look out for restaurants that use the weight of frozen or ice-covered seafood. Restaurants are required to sell seafood based on the weight of the thawed product.

Several voluntary certifications are available that ensure the seafood is authentic. Seafood with a Marine Stewardship Council or "Gulf Wide" label are required to be authentic and sustainable. Fish certified as "Gulf Wide" will have a tracking number, which enables consumers to trace the fish back to where it was caught. Restaurants can choose to put this information on their menus.

If you suspect seafood substitution: To report it to the state, go to http://www.fl-seafood.com/consumers.htm and then select "Seafood Mislabeling, Substitution and Weight Misrepresentation." The site includes forms to fill out online. You can also write to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, 1940 North Monroe St., Tallahassee, FL 32399. To report to the federal Food and Drug Administration, call the department's hotline 888-SAFEFOOD (888-723-3366) or e-mail consumer@fda.gov.

Check out the database of Florida food misrepresentation cases at SunSentinel.com/foodmisrep